Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow bowls for your breading station. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breading adheres well.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the crust becomes golden brown and crispy. You don’t need to cook the chicken through at this point, just get that crispy, golden exterior.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Once all the chicken breasts have been pan-fried, transfer them to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese has melted and turned golden brown.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a pop of brightness. This Parmesan Chicken pairs perfectly with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables.
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, offering crispy, golden-breaded chicken coated in savory Parmesan cheese and herbs. This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s easy to make and bursting with flavor.
Benefits of Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Rich in Protein:
This Parmesan Chicken dish is an excellent source of lean protein, thanks to the chicken breasts. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall cell health. Including lean chicken in your meals supports muscle maintenance and keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
Calcium Boost:
Using Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese in the recipe adds a healthy dose of calcium, vital for bone health. Parmesan, in particular, is a good source of calcium and adds a lot of flavor with just a small amount.
Balanced Fats:
The use of olive oil in the pan-frying step introduces healthy fats into the meal. These fats help reduce bad cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. By using olive oil instead of less healthy fats, you boost the nutritional profile of the dish.
Lower in Carbohydrates:
Compared to other breaded dishes, this Parmesan Chicken uses a smaller amount of breadcrumbs, keeping the carbohydrate count relatively low. This makes it a great option for those following a low-carb diet or trying to balance their intake of carbohydrates. You can also substitute traditional breadcrumbs for gluten-free or whole-grain breadcrumbs for added fiber and health benefits.
Antioxidant-Rich Herbs:
The herbs in this recipe—oregano, basil, and garlic—are not only flavorful but also packed with health benefits. Oregano and basil are rich in antioxidants, compounds that protect your body from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Garlic adds both flavor and immune-boosting properties, thanks to its natural antibacterial and antiviral effects.
Supports Healthy Weight Management:
Because this dish is high in protein and lower in carbohydrates, it can help with healthy weight management. Protein-rich foods like chicken breasts are more filling and satisfying, helping to reduce overall calorie intake throughout the day. The balance of fats, proteins, and carbs keeps you feeling energized and full longer, without the crash that comes from carb-heavy meals.
Great for Meal Prep:
Parmesan Chicken is perfect for meal prepping. You can easily make extra servings and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors of the dish tend to deepen over time, making it even more delicious when reheated. You can also freeze individual portions for a quick meal later on.
Customizable:
This recipe can easily be adapted to suit your dietary needs. You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs, or opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives if you’re lactose intolerant. Adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the baking dish can also increase the fiber content and add more vitamins to the meal.